Enhancing natural wood conditioning with linseed oil
What's the story
Linseed oil, extracted from the seeds of the flax plant, has been utilized for hundreds of years as a natural finish and conditioner for wood.
Applying it not only amplifies the wood's aesthetic appeal but also safeguards it from moisture and wear.
This article provides handy tips on how to use linseed oil effectively for wood conditioning projects.
Preparation
Preparing the wood surface
Before applying linseed oil, you need to ensure the wood surface is adequately prepared.
Begin by sanding the wood using fine-grit sandpaper to eliminate any rough areas or old finishes.
This process guarantees that the oil will evenly soak into the wood fibers, ultimately yielding a smooth and uniform finish.
Selection
Choosing between raw and boiled linseed oil
There are two kinds of linseed oil: raw and boiled.
Raw linseed oil is the pure stuff, no additives. It dries, but it takes a long time.
Boiled linseed oil has drying agents added to it. It cures much faster.
Most of the time, for woodworking, you want to use boiled linseed oil because it dries faster.
Application
Applying linseed oil correctly
To apply it properly, use a clean cloth or brush to apply a thin layer of linseed oil to the wood surface.
Let it soak in for approximately 15 minutes, then wipe off any excess with a clean rag.
Remember, it's crucial to apply several thin coats rather than a single thick one for a more even finish.
Ensure each coat dries completely before applying the next.
Safety
Maintaining safety during use
Extreme caution is necessary when using linseed oil due to the high combustibility of wet rags if not properly disposed of.
Always spread used rags flat to dry outdoors or soak them in water before disposal to avoid spontaneous combustion.
Work in areas with good ventilation and use protective gloves during application.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance for longevity
To keep the beauty and protection of linseed oil finishes, you need to reapply it regularly based on how much you use the furniture and how much it gets exposed to different conditions.
Usually, once every two years is enough for indoor furniture, but outdoor ones need to be taken care of more often.